CCBU boosts Uganda’s beverage industry with modern production line

The new line operates at a capacity of 67,000 bottles per hour and represents an investment exceeding $27 million
The production line supports Uganda's industrial goals and aims to increase the industrial sector’s contribution to GDP
The expansion contributes to job creation, supports local businesses, and aligns with government initiatives to promote industrialisation

Coca-Cola Beverages Uganda (CCBU), a subsidiary of Coca-Cola Beverages Africa, has significantly enhanced its production capabilities with the launch of East Africa's fastest plastic bottle production line.

Located at the company's head office in Namanve, this new line operates at an impressive capacity of 67,000 bottles per hour, featuring advanced technologies such as robotic arms and automated fillers.

Commissioned in 2022, the production line represents a substantial investment exceeding $27 million. This strategic move aims to ensure that CCBU's range of soft drinks is widely available across Uganda, meeting growing consumer demand with consistent product quality.

The introduction of the new polyethene phthalate (PET) production line aligns with Uganda's broader industrial goals. As the country aims to increase the industrial sector’s contribution to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) from 27.4% to 31% by 2040 and boost the share of the labour force in the sector to 26%, CCBU's expansion plays a critical role in this national economic strategy.

Melkamu Abebe, General Manager of CCBU, emphasised the broader impact of the new production line on Uganda’s economy.

“Because we are thought and execution leaders in operational efficiencies, we made sure our production line goes beyond production numbers,” Abebe stated.

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Melkamu Abebe, General Manager of CCBU pulse uganda

He highlighted that the new facility not only augments production but also contributes to job creation and supports local businesses by increasing demand for raw materials and services.

Currently, CCBU employs over 900 individuals, and the increased production capability is expected to further stimulate job creation within the community. Additionally, the expansion helps to reduce imports and encourages local manufacturing, aligning with government initiatives to promote industrialisation through specialised zones established since the late 1990s.

The new production line also promises increased taxable income for the government, reinforcing CCBU’s commitment to supporting Uganda’s developmental goals.

“This is one example of our ongoing journey to bring our products to consumers in new and dynamic ways. Demand for our products has increased across Uganda. So, we invest to ensure that we reach our customers and consumers with the best quality products available in the market,” Abebe added.

With this development, Coca-Cola Beverages Uganda not only sets a new standard in beverage production efficiency but also actively contributes to the economic growth and industrial capability of Uganda, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s journey towards enhanced industrial and economic development.